Train Travel in Great Britain

This year, we’re doing it all when it comes to transportation—planes, buses, cruises, cars, and everything in between. But by far, our favorite way to travel is by train.

Whether we’re heading to a nearby town for a day trip or crossing the country, we always choose the train when it makes sense for time and budget. It’s comfortable, scenic, and surprisingly easy once you get the hang of it.

If you're from the U.S.—especially anywhere outside the Northeast—you might not be used to train travel. Sure, you can take Amtrak from Kansas City to Chicago (slowly) or even all the way to L.A. (expensively). But using trains as a daily or regional transport option? That’s rare unless you live in places like New York or D.C. So for many Americans, navigating UK trains can feel overwhelming at first—but trust us, once you get the hang of it, there's no better way to travel.

Navigating the UK Train System

In the UK, we use trains at least once a week—either to explore the area we’re staying in or to move between regions. Here’s how it all works:

The UK has a national rail network, but the trains are operated by regional companies like:

• Transport for Wales (TfW)

• Great Western Railway (GWR)

• Northern

• ScotRail

All these operators use the same ticketing system, so you can book one ticket even if your trip involves more than one operator.

💡 Tip: Avoid booking fees by buying directly from the operator’s website or app instead of using sites like Trainline.

We usually research routes using Google Maps or Rome2Rio, then book through the operator. I also download the operator’s app so I can easily pull up our tickets when we’re on the go.

Save Big with a Railcard

If you’re planning to travel by train multiple times, consider buying a railcard. We bought the Two Together Railcard from the National Rail site this year and it’s already paid for itself.

• Cost: £30 (about $50 USD)

• Savings: 1/3 off most fares when traveling together during off-peak times

• Total savings so far: ~$180 and counting!

You can store the railcard digitally in the National Rail app, and it works seamlessly with mobile tickets.

How to Buy Train Tickets in the UK

Buying UK train tickets can feel overwhelming at first. Here's how to break it down:

1. Travel Time

• Off-Peak: After ~9:30 AM on weekdays, all day on weekends and holidays. These tickets are much cheaper.

• Peak: Morning and late afternoon commuter times—more expensive.

2. Flexibility

• Advance: Cheapest, but locked to a specific train/time.

• Off-Peak or Anytime: More flexible. “Anytime” means you can hop on any train that day.

• Return vs. One-Way: Round-trip (return) tickets are often cheaper than two one-way fares.

3. Ticket Options

• First vs. Second Class: We always go with second class—plenty comfortable!

• Mobile Tickets: Add to your Apple Wallet or Google Wallet. Easy to scan at stations and onboard.

💡 Note: While you’re supposed to show your railcard with your ticket, we’ve only been asked once. Keep it handy just in case!

At major stations, you’ll scan your ticket’s QR code at the turnstile to enter or exit. I keep both of our tickets in my phone and just scan Eric through before scanning mine.

Train Travel Tips & Tricks

Here are a few things we’ve learned along the way:

• Seats face both directions—book forward-facing if you get motion sick.

• Sometimes trains separate mid route — Pay attention to the announcements and make sure your carriage is going where you are planning to go!

• Traveling in a group? Look for quad seats with a table—perfect for cards, snacks, or working on the go.

• Toilets on board—usually available on long-distance trains, though cleanliness and toilet paper can be hit or miss.

• Reserved seating—check the sign above the window to see if a seat is taken.

• Luggage racks—located at the end of each carriage; smaller bags go on overhead shelves.

• Know your stop! Use signs, announcements, or follow along in Google Maps.

• Wi-Fi and power outlets—available on many (but not all) trains.

Why We Love Train Travel in the UK

• Arrive just 5–10 minutes before departure—no long check-in lines.

• No security screening—just board and go.

• Roomy seats with tray tables and lots of legroom.

• You can bring food, drinks, and even wine or beer on board.

• The views! British countryside from a train window is unbeatable.

Train travel has become one of the highlights of our UK adventure. It’s affordable, efficient, and so much more relaxing than driving or flying. If you’ve never used trains regularly, don’t worry—it’s easier than it seems and totally worth learning.